Display device and method of repairing display device

ABSTRACT

A display device includes a substrate, a scan line disposed on the substrate, a storage line parallel to the scan line and a data line intersecting the scan line and the storage line. First and second transistors are electrically connected to the scan line and the data line. A first pixel electrode is disposed on the first transistor and includes a first stem portion, a first contact portion and a first branch portion. The first branch portion electrically connects the first contact portion to the first stem portion, a second pixel electrode is disposed on the second transistor and includes a second stem portion, a second contact portion and a second branch portion. The second branch portion electrically connects the second contact portion to the second stem portion. A first pattern is disposed between the substrate and the second pixel electrode. The first pattern overlaps the second branch portion.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims priority under 35 U.S.C. § 119 to Korean PatentApplication No. 10-2020-0076114, filed on Jun. 23, 2020 in the KoreaIntellectual Property Office, the disclosure of which is incorporated byreference in its entirety herein.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present inventive concepts relate to a display device. Moreparticularly the present inventive concepts relate to a liquid crystaldisplay device and a method of repairing the liquid crystal displaydevice.

DISCUSSION OF RELATED ART

Display devices have become increasingly important with theproliferation of multimedia technology and information. Accordingly,various types of display devices, such as liquid crystal displays (LCD)and organic light emitting displays (OLED) have been developed.

The liquid crystal display is a flat panel display that is widely usedamong the various display devices. The liquid crystal display device mayinclude two display plates on which electric field generating electrodesare formed respectively and a liquid crystal layer is interposedtherebetween. An electric field is generated in the liquid crystal layerby applying a voltage to the electric field generating electrodes. Thealignment of the liquid crystal molecules of the liquid crystal layer isdetermined by the electric field, and the polarization of incident lightis controlled, so that the liquid crystal display device may display animage.

In the process of manufacturing the liquid crystal display, a defectivepixel may occur, and the defective pixel may emit light on a blackscreen. The visual recognition of the defective pixel may be preventedby placing a pixel electrode of the defective pixel in an electricallyfloating state, such as by cutting the pixel electrode. However, thealignment layer may be damaged in the process of cutting the pixelelectrode, and light leakage may occur through the damaged alignmentlayer.

SUMMARY

Exemplary embodiments of the present inventive concepts provide adisplay device for preventing light leakage by a damaged alignment layerand a method of repairing the display device.

According to an exemplary embodiment of the present inventive concepts,a display device includes a substrate, a scan line disposed on thesubstrate, a storage line disposed parallel to the scan line and a dataline intersecting the scan line and the storage line. First and secondtransistors are configured to be electrically connected to the scan lineand the data line. A first pixel electrode is disposed on the firsttransistor and includes a first stem. portion disposed parallel to thedata line, a first contact portion that is configured to be electricallyconnected to the first transistor, and a first branch portion disposedbetween the first contact portion and the first stem portion. The firstbranch portion is configured to electrically connect the first contactportion to the first stem portion. A second pixel electrode is disposedon the second transistor. The second pixel electrode is spaced apartfrom the first pixel electrode with the scan line disposed therebetween.The second pixel electrode includes a second stem portion disposedparallel to the data line, a second contact portion that is configuredto be electrically connected to the second transistor, and a secondbranch portion disposed between the second contact portion and thesecond stem portion. The second branch portion is configured toelectrically connect the second contact portion to the second stemportion. A first pattern is disposed between the substrate and thesecond pixel electrode, the first pattern overlapping the second branchportion.

In an exemplary embodiment, the first pattern may extend from thestorage line.

In an exemplary embodiment, the first pattern may be symmetrical aboutthe second stem when viewed in the plan view.

In an exemplary embodiment, the display device may further include asecond pattern disposed between the substrate and the first pixelelectrode and overlapping the first branch portion.

In an exemplary embodiment, the storage line may include a firstextension portion and a second extension portion extending parallel tothe data line and spaced apart from each other with the first stemportion therebetween, and the second pattern may extend from the firstextension portion.

In an exemplary embodiment, the display device may further include athird pattern extending from the second extension portion andsymmetrical to the second pattern about the first stem portion whenviewed in the plan view.

In an exemplary embodiment, the display device may further include athird transistor connected to the scan line and the storage line.

In an exemplary embodiment, the display device may further include analignment layer disposed on the first pixel electrode and the secondpixel electrode.

In an exemplary embodiment, the display device may further include acommon electrode disposed on the alignment layer and a liquid crystallayer disposed between the alignment layer and the common electrode.

According to an exemplary embodiment of the present inventive concepts,a display device includes a substrate, a scan line disposed on thesubstrate, a storage line disposed parallel to the scan line and a dataline intersecting the scan line and the storage line. A transistorincludes a gate electrode connected to the scan line, a source electrodeconnected to the data line, and a drain electrode that is spaced apartfrom the source electrode. A pixel electrode is disposed on thetransistor and includes a stem portion disposed parallel to the dataline, a contact portion that is configured to be electrically connectedto the drain electrode, and a branch portion disposed between thecontact portion and the stem portion. Thee branch portion is configuredto electrically connect the contact portion to the stem portion. A firstpattern is disposed between the substrate and the pixel electrode. Thefirst pattern overlaps the branch portion.

In an exemplary embodiment, the first pattern may extend from thestorage line.

In an exemplary embodiment, the first pattern may be symmetrical aboutthe stem portion when viewed in a plan view.

In an exemplary embodiment, the storage line may include a firstextension portion and a second extension portion extending parallel tothe data line and spaced apart from each other with the stem portiontherebetween, and the first pattern may extend from the first extensionportion.

In an exemplary embodiment, the display device may further include asecond pattern extending from the second extension portion andsymmetrical to the first pattern about the stem portion when viewed in aplan view.

In an exemplary embodiment, the display device may further include analignment layer disposed on the pixel electrode.

According to an exemplary embodiment, a method of repairing a displaydevice which includes a substrate, a scan line disposed on thesubstrate, a storage line disposed parallel to the scan line, a dataline intersecting the scan line and the storage line, first and secondtransistors that are configured to be electrically connected to the scanline and the data line, a first pixel electrode disposed on the firsttransistor and including a first stem portion disposed parallel to thedata line, a first contact portion that is configured to be electricallyconnected to the first transistor, and a first branch portion disposedbetween the first contact portion and the first stem portion, the firstbranch portion is configured to electrically connect the first contactportion to the first stem portion, a second pixel electrode disposed onthe second transistor, the second pixel electrode is spaced apart fromthe first pixel electrode with the scan line interposed therebetween,the second pixel electrode including a second stem portion disposedparallel to the data line, a second contact portion that is configuredto be electrically connected to the second transistor, and a secondbranch portion disposed between the second contact portion and thesecond stem portion, the second branch portion is configured toelectrically connect the second contact portion to the second stemportion, and a first pattern disposed between the substrate and thesecond pixel electrode, the first pattern overlapping the second branchportion. The method comprises cutting an electrical connection betweenthe second pixel electrode and the second transistor by cutting thesecond branch portion.

In an exemplary embodiment, the second branch portion may be cut byusing a laser.

In an exemplary embodiment, the display device may further include asecond pattern disposed between the substrate and the first pixelelectrode and overlapping the first branch portion.

In an exemplary embodiment, the method may further include cutting aconnection between the first pixel electrode and the first transistor bycutting off the first branch portion.

In an exemplary embodiment, the first branch portion may be cut by usinga laser.

According to an exemplary embodiment of the present inventive concepts,a display device includes a substrate. A gate pattern is disposed on thesubstrate. A data pattern is disposed on the gate pattern. A transparentconductive pattern is disposed on the gate pattern and includes at leastone pixel electrode. An alignment layer is disposed, on the transparentconductive pattern. At least one pattern is disposed between thesubstrate and the at least one pixel electrode. The at least one patternis configured to block incident light that passes through the alignmentlayer.

The display device according to exemplary embodiments of the presentinventive concepts may include the first pattern disposed between thesubstrate and the pixel electrode and overlapping the branch portionconnecting the stem portion of the pixel electrode to the contactportion of the pixel electrode, so that the first pattern y preventlight leakage from occurring through a damaged portion of the alignmentlayer.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Illustrative non-limiting exemplary embodiments will be more clearlyunderstood from the following detailed description taken in conjunctionwith the accompanying drawings.

FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view showing a display deviceaccording to an exemplary embodiment of the present inventive concepts.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a display panel of the display deviceof FIG. 1 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present inventiveconcepts.

FIG. 3 is an equivalent circuit diagram showing a pixel of the displaypanel of FIG. 2 according to an exemplary embodiment of the presentinventive concepts.

FIG. 4 is a layout diagram showing a pixel of the display panel of FIG.2 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present inventiveconcepts.

FIG. 5 is a layout diagram showing a gate pattern included in the pixelof FIG. 4 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present inventiveconcepts.

FIG. 6 is a layout diagram showing a data pattern included in the pixelof FIG. 4 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present inventiveconcepts.

FIG. 7 is a layout diagram showing a transparent conductive patternincluded in the pixel of FIG. 4 according to an exemplary embodiment ofthe present inventive concepts.

FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view taken along line I-I′ of FIG. 4according to an exemplary embodiment of the present inventive concepts.

FIG. 9 is a layout diagram showing a method of repairing a displaydevice according to an exemplary embodiment of the present inventiveconcepts.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS

Hereinafter, display devices and methods of repairing display devices inaccordance with exemplary embodiments of the present inventive conceptswill be explained in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view showing a display deviceaccording to an exemplary embodiment of the present inventive concepts.

Referring to the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 1, the display device mayinclude a display panel 100 and a backlight unit BLU. The display panel100 may include a first display plate 200, a second display plate 300, aliquid crystal layer 400 disposed between the first display plate 200and the second display plate 300 (e.g., in a thickness direction of thedisplay panel 100).

The backlight unit BLU may generate light LT and provide the light LT tothe display panel 100. In an exemplary embodiment, the light LT providedby the backlight unit BLU may be light of a white color or anotherpredetermined color. The backlight unit BLU may include a light emittingdiode LED for generating the light LT.

The light LT provided by the backlight unit BLU may be incident on alower surface of the display panel 100. For example, as shown in theexemplary embodiment of FIG. 1, the light LT may be incident on a lowersurface of the first display plate 200. However, exemplary embodimentsof thee present inventive concepts are not limited thereto. Thebacklight unit BLU may include various optical sheets such as a prismsheet, a diffusion sheet, a reflection sheet and a brightnessenhancement film to provide a high light efficacy.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the display panel 100 of the displaydevice of FIG. 1 according to an exemplary embodiment of the presentinventive concepts.

Referring to the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 2, the display panel 100may include display unit 110, a scan driver 120, a data driver 130, anda timing controller 140.

The display unit 110 may display an image. A plurality of pixels PX maybe disposed in the display unit 110. In an exemplary embodiment, thepixels PX may be arranged in a matrix form along a first direction DR1and a second direction DR2 that intersects the first direction DR1. Forexample, as shown in the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 2, the firstdirection DR1 and the second direction DR2 may be perpendicular to eachother. However, exemplary embodiments of the present inventive conceptsare not limited thereto and the first direction DR1 and the seconddirection DR2 may intersect each other at various different angles

Each of the pixels PX may be electrically connected to one scan line ofscan lines SL and one data line of data lines DL. In an exemplaryembodiment, the scan lines SL may extend in the first direction D1. Inaddition, the data lines DL may extend in the second direction D2. Forexample, as shown in FIG. 2, the first direction DR1 may be a rowdirection, and the second direction DR2 may be a column direction.However, exemplary embodiments of the present inventive concepts are notlimited thereto. For example, in another exemplary embodiment, the scanlines SL may extend in the second direction D2 and the data lines DL mayextend in the first direction D1.

The scan driver 120 may generate a scan signal SS based on a firstcontrol signal CONT1 provided from the timing controller 140. The scandriver 120 may provide the scan signal SS to the pixels PX disposed inthe display unit 110 through the scan lines SL. In an exemplaryembodiment, the scan driver 120 may include a plurality of transistors.In another exemplary embodiment, the scan driver 120 may be anintegrated circuit.

The data driver 130 may be provided with a second control signal CONT2and image data DATA from the timing controller 140. The data driver 130may generate a data signal DS based on the second control signal CONT2and the image data DATA. The data driver 130 may provide the data signalDS to the pixels PX disposed in the display unit 110 through the datalines DL. In an exemplary embodiment, the data driver 130 may include ashift register, a latch, a digital-analog converter, and the like.However, exemplary embodiments of the present inventive concepts are notlimited thereto.

The timing controller 140 may be provided with an image signal RGB and acontrol signal CS from the outside (e.g., from an external device,etc.). The timing controller 140 may generate image data DMA, a firstcontrol signal CONT1, and a second control signal CONT2 by processingthe image signal RGB and the control signal CS in relation to theoperating conditions of the display unit 110.

In an exemplary embodiment, the image signal RGB may include gray scaledata provided to the display unit 110. in addition, the control signalCS may include a horizontal synchronization signal, a verticalsynchronization signal, a main clock signal, and the like. Thehorizontal synchronization signal may represent a time required todisplay one pixel row of the display unit 110. The verticalsynchronization signal may represent a time required to display an imageof one frame. The main clock signal may be a signal that serves as areference for generating signals after the timing controller 140 issynchronized with the scan driver 120 and the data driver 130.

FIG. 3 is an equivalent circuit diagram showing a pixel PX of thedisplay panel 100 of FIG. 2 according to an exemplary embodiment of thepresent inventive concepts.

Referring to the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 3, the pixel PX may beconnected to a scan line SL, a data line DL, and a storage line RL. Thepixel PX may be provided with a scan signal SS, a data signal DS, and astorage voltage Vst from the scan line SL, the data line DL, and thestorage line RL, respectively.

As shown in the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 3, the pixel PX may includea first transistor TR1, a second transistor TR2, a third transistor TR3,a first liquid crystal capacitor Clc1, a second liquid crystal capacitorClc2 a first storage capacitor Cst1, and a second storage capacitorCst2.

The first transistor TR1 may include a first gate electrode, a firstsource electrode, and a first drain electrode. The first gate electrodemay be connected to the scan line SL. The first source electrode may beconnected to the data line DL The first drain electrode may be connectedto a first node N1. In an exemplary embodiment, the first transistor TR1may perform a switching operation based on the scan signal SS providedfrom the scan line SL, and provide the data signal DS provided from thedata line DL to the first node N1.

The second transistor TR2 may include a second gate electrode, a secondsource electrode, and a second drain electrode. The second gateelectrode may be connected to the scan line SL. The second sourceelectrode may be connected to the data line DL, and the second drainelectrode may be connected to a second node N2. In an exemplaryembodiment, the second transistor TR2 may perform a switching operationbased on the scan signal SS provided from the scan line SL, and providethe data signal DS provided from the data line DL to the second node N2.

The third transistor TR3 may include a third gate electrode, a thirdsource electrode, and a third drain electrode. The third gate electrodemay be connected to the scan line SL. The third source electrode may beconnected to the storage line RL, and the third drain electrode may beconnected to a second node N2. In an exemplary embodiment, the thirdtransistor TR3 may perform a switching operation based on the scansignal SS provided from the scan line SE, and provide the storagevoltage Vst provided from the storage line RL to the second node N2.

The first liquid crystal capacitor Clc1 may be formed between the firstnode N1 and a common electrode CE (FIG. 8) to which a common voltageVcom is provided. The second, liquid crystal capacitor Clc2 may beformed between the second node N2 and the common electrode CE to whichthe common voltage VCOM is provided.

The first storage capacitor Cst1 may be formed between the first node N1and the storage line RL to which the storage voltage Vst is provided.The second storage capacitor Cst2 may be formed between the second nodeN2 and the storage line RL to which the storage voltage Vst is provided.

When a gate-on voltage is applied to the scan line SL, the firsttransistor TR1, the second transistor TR2, and the third transistor TR3may be turned on. Accordingly, the data signal DS applied to the dataline DL may be applied to the first node N1 and the second node N2through the first transistor TRI and the second transistor TR2,respectively, which were turned on by the gate-on voltage. In thisexemplary embodiment, the data signals DS applied to the first node N1and the second node N2 are the same, and the first liquid crystalcapacitor Clc1 and the second liquid crystal capacitor Clc2 may becharged with a voltage corresponding to a difference between the commonvoltage Vcom applied to the common electrode CE and the data signal DS.At the same time, as the voltage of the second node N2 increases ordecreases due to the storage voltage Vst applied from the storage lineRL through the turned-on third transistor TR3, the voltage charged inthe second liquid crystal capacitor Clc2 and the voltage charged in thefirst liquid crystal capacitor Clc1 become different from each other.

Since the voltage of the first liquid crystal capacitor Clc1 and thevoltage of the second liquid crystal capacitor Clc2 are different fromeach other, a tilt angle of liquid crystal molecules of a first subpixel SPX1 in which the first liquid crystal capacitor Clc1 is formedbecomes different from a tilt angle of liquid crystal molecules of asecond sub pixel SPX2 in which the second liquid crystal capacitor Clc2is formed. Accordingly, a brightness of the first sub pixel SPX1 and abrightness of the second sub pixel SPX2 may be different from eachother. Accordingly, then the voltage of the first liquid crystalcapacitor Clc1 and the voltage of the second liquid crystal capacitorClc2 are properly adjusted, an image viewed from a lateral side may bedisplayed to have a brightness that is substantially the same as thebrightness of an image viewed from a front side. Therefore, a lateralvisibility of the image may be increased. While the exemplary embodimentof FIG. 3 shows first to third transistors TR1, TR2, TR3, in otherexemplary embodiments the numbers of transistors may vary. Additionally,while the first to third transistors TR1, TR2, TR3 shown in theexemplary embodiment of FIG. 3 have single gates, in other exemplaryembodiments one or more of the transistors may have a dual gate, etc.

FIG. 4 is a layout diagram showing the pixel PX of the display panel 100of FIG. 2 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present inventiveconcepts. FIG. 5 is a layout diagram showing a gate pattern included inthe pixel PX of FIG. 4 according to an exemplary embodiment of thepresent inventive concepts. FIG. 6 is a layout diagram showing a datapattern included in the pixel PX of FIG. 4 according to an exemplaryembodiment of the present inventive concepts. FIG. 7 is a layout diagramshowing a transparent conductive pattern included in the pixel PX ofFIG. 4 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present inventiveconcepts. FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view taken along line I-I′ of FIG.4 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present inventiveconcepts.

Referring to the exemplary embodiments of FIGS. 2, 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8,the display panel 100 may include a first display plate 200, a seconddisplay plate 300, and a liquid crystal layer 400 disposed therebetween

The first display plate 200 and the second display plate 300 may bedisposed to face each other. The liquid crystal layer 400 may bedisposed between the first display plate 200 and the second displayplate 300. The liquid crystal layer 400 may include a plurality ofliquid crystal molecules 410. In an exemplary embodiment, the firstdisplay plate 200 and the second display plate 300 may be bonded to eachother through a sealing member. However, exemplary embodiments of thepresent inventive concepts are not limited thereto.

The first display plate 200 may include a first substrate 210, a gatepattern GP, a gate insulating layer 220, a data pattern DP, a firstpassivation layer 250, a color filter CF, an organic insulating layer260, a second passivation layer 270, a transparent conductive patternTP, and a first alignment layer 280.

In an exemplary embodiment, the first substrate 210 may be a transparentinsulating substrate. For example, the transparent insulating substratemay include at least one material selected from glass, quartz,transparent plastic, and the like. In another exemplary embodiment, thefirst substrate 210 may be a flexible substrate or a structure in whicha plurality of films are laminated.

The gate pattern GP may be disposed on the first substrate 210. The gatepattern GP may include a scan line SL and a storage line RL.

As shown in the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 5, the scan line SL mayextend longitudinally substantially in the first direction DI. The scanline SL may include a first gate electrode GE1, a second gate electrodeGE2, and a third gate electrode GE3.

The storage line RL may be disposed substantially parallel to the scanline SL and may extend longitudinally substantially in the firstdirection D1. The storage line RL may be disposed on the same layer asthe scan line SL. The storage line RL may be disposed to surround atleast a partial portion of lateral sides of a first pixel electrode PE1and a second pixel electrode PE2. Accordingly, the storage line RL mayinclude a first extension portion EP1 surrounding right portions (e.g.,in the first direction DR1) of the first and second pixel electrodes PE1and PE2, and a second extension portion EP2 surrounding left sides(e.g., in the first direction DR1) of the first and second pixelelectrodes PE1 and PE2. The first extension portion EP1 and the secondextension portion EP2 may be spaced apart from each other (e.g., in thefirst direction DR1) and a first stem portion PE1 a of the first pixelelectrode PE1 and a second stem portion PE2 a of the second pixelelectrode PE2 may be described later are interposed therebetween.

The storage line RL may be disposed to overlap at least a partialportion of each of the first and second pixel electrodes PE1 and PE2.Accordingly, the storage line RL may include a third extension portionEP3 overlapping at least a partial portion of each of the first andsecond pixel electrodes PE1 and PE2. The overlapping third extensionportion EP3 and the first pixel electrode PE1 may form a first storagecapacitor Cst1, and the overlapping third extension portion EP3 and thesecond pixel electrode PE2 may form a second storage capacitor Cst2.

In an exemplary embodiment, the gate pattern GP may be formed of asingle film selected from one compound of the following compounds, adouble film selected from two compounds of the following compounds, or atriple film selected from three compounds of the following compounds:aluminum (Al), copper (Cu), molybdenum (Mo), chromium (Cr), titanium(Ti), and tungsten (W). However, exemplary embodiments of the presentinventive concepts are not limited thereto. In an exemplary embodiment,the scan line SL and the storage line RL included in the gate pattern GPmay be formed substantially simultaneously through the same maskprocess.

The gate insulating layer 220 may be disposed on the gate pattern GP. Inan exemplary embodiment, the gate insulating layer 220 may be formed ofsilicon nitride, silicon oxide, or the like. In an exemplary embodiment,the gate insulating layer 220 may have a multi-layer structure includingat least two insulating layers having different physical properties.

The data pattern DP may be disposed on the gate insulating layer 220.The data pattern DP may include a data line DL, a first source electrodeSE1, a first drain electrode DE1, a second source electrode SE2, asecond drain electrode DE2, a third source electrode SE3, a third drainelectrode DE3, and a semiconductor layer 230. In the semiconductor layer230, a first channel region CH1 of the first transistor TR1 may beformed between the first source electrode SE1 and the first drainelectrode DE1, a second channel region CH2 of the second transistor TR2may be formed between the second source electrode SE2 and the seconddrain electrode DE2, and a third channel region CH3 of the thirdtransistor TR3 may be formed between the third source electrode SE3 andthe third drain electrode DE3.

The semiconductor layer 230 may be disposed on the gate insulating layer220. In an exemplary embodiment, the semiconductor layer 230 may beformed of at amorphous silicon, polycrystalline silicon, or the like. Inanother exemplary embodiment, the semiconductor layer 230 may be formedof an oxide semiconductor. However, exemplary embodiments of the presentinventive concepts are not limited thereto. in an exemplary embodimentin which the semiconductor layer 230 is formed of the oxidesemiconductor, the semiconductor layer 230 may be formed of at least onecompound selected from oxide semiconductors including IGZO, ZnO, ZnO₂,CdO, SrO, SrO₂, CaO, CaO₂, MgO, MgO₂, InO, InO₂, GaO, Ga₂O, Ga₂O₃, SnO,SnO₂, GeO, GeO₂, PbO, Pb₂O₃, Pb₃O₄, TiO, TiO₂, Ti₂O₃, and Ti₃O₅.

In an exemplary embodiment, the data pattern DP may further include anohmic contact layer 240. The ohmic contact layer 240 may be disposed onthe semiconductor layer 230. in an exemplar embodiment, the ohmiccontact layer 240 may be formed of a material such as n³⁰ hydrogenatedamorphous silicon doped with a high concentration of n-type impuritiessuch as phosphorus, or may be formed of silicide. However, in anexemplary embodiment in which the semiconductor layer 230 is formed ofthe oxide semiconductor, the ohmic contact layer 240 may be omitted.Hereinafter, the data pattern DP will be described as including theohmic contact layer 240 for convenience of explanation.

The data line DL, the first source electrode SE1, the first drainelectrode DE1, the second source electrode SE2, the second drainelectrode DE2, the third source electrode SE3, and the third drainelectrode DE3 may be disposed on the gate insulating layer 220 and theohmic contact layer 240 The data line DL may substantially extend in thesecond direction DR2 and intersect both the scan line SL and the storageline RL.

The first source electrode SE1 may protrude from the data line DL (e.g.,in the first direction DR1) so that at least a partial portion of thefirst source electrode SE1 may overlap the first gate electrode GE1. Atleast a partial portion of the first drain electrode DE1 may overlap thefirst gate electrode GE1, and may be spaced apart from the first sourceelectrode SE1 (e.g., in the second direction DR2).

Although the exemplary embodiments of FIGS. 4 and 6 show that the firstsource electrode SE1 has a ‘U’-shape when viewed from the top (e.g., ina plan view in a plane defined in the first and second directions DR1,DR2), and the first drain electrode DE1 is surrounded by the firstsource electrode SE1, exemplary embodiments of the present inventiveconcepts are not limited thereto. The first gate electrode GE1, thefirst source electrode SE1, the first drain electrode DE1, and the firstchannel region CH1 may form the first transistor TR1.

The second source electrode SE2 may protrude from the data line DL sothat at least a partial portion of the sec second source electrode SE2may overlap the second gate electrode GE2. At least a partial portion ofthe second drain electrode DE2 may overlap the second gate electrodeGE2, and may be spaced apart from the second source electrode SE2 (e.g.,in the first direction DR1). The second gate electrode GE2, the secondsource electrode SE2, the second drain electrode DE2, and the secondchannel region CH2 may form the second transistor TR2.

The third source electrode SE3 may be electrically connected to thestorage RL by the connection pattern CP, and at least a partial portionof the third source electrode SE3 may overlap the third gate electrodeGE3. At least a partial portion of the third drain electrode DE3 mayoverlap the third gate electrode GE3, and may be spaced apart from thethird source electrode SE3 (e.g., in the first direction DR1). The thirdgate electrode GE3, the third source electrode SE3, the third drainelectrode DE3, and the third channel region CH3 may form the thirdtransistor TR3.

In an exemplary embodiment, the data pattern DP may be formed of asingle film selected from one of the following compounds, a double filmselected from two of the following compounds, or a triple film selectedfrom three among the following compounds: aluminum (Al), copper (Cu),molybdenum (Mo), chromium (Cr), titanium and tungsten (W). In anexemplary embodiment, the data line DL, the first source electrode SE1,the first drain electrode DE1, the second source electrode SE2, thesecond drain electrode DE2, the third source electrode SE3, the thirddrain electrode DE3, the semiconductor layer 230, and the ohmic contactlayer 240, which are included in the data pattern DP, may be formedsubstantially simultaneously through the same mask process.

The first passivation layer 250 may be disposed on the data pattern DP.In an exemplary embodiment, the first passivation layer 250 may beformed of an inorganic insulating material such as silicon nitride andsilicon oxide. The first passivation layer 250 may prevent pigment ofthe organic insulating layer 260 from being introduced to thesemiconductor layer 230.

The color filter CF may be disposed on the first passivation layer 250.In an exemplary embodiment, light passing through the color filter CFmay express one of primary colors such as red, green, and blue. However,the expressed color of the light passing through the color filter CF isnot limited to primary colors. For example, in another exemplaryembodiment, the light passing through the color filter CF may expressany one of cyan, magenta, yellow, and white.

In an exemplary embodiment, the color filter CF may be formed of amaterial expressing a color different from each pixel adjacent in thefirst direction DR1, and may be formed of a material expressing the samecolor as each pixel adjacent in the second direction DR2. However,exemplary embodiments of the present inventive concepts are not limitedthereto. In another exemplary embodiment, the color filter CF may beformed of a material that expresses a different color for each adjacentpixel regardless of the direction. Although the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 8 shows that the color filter CF is disposed in the first displayplate 200, exemplary embodiments of the present inventive concepts arenot limited thereto. For example, in another exemplary embodiment, thecolor filter CE may be disposed in the second display plate 300.

The organic insulating layer 260 may be disposed on the firstpassivation layer 250 and the color filter CF. The organic. insulatinglayer 260 may have planarization properties, and may include an organicmaterial having photosensitivity. However, exemplary embodiments of thepresent inventive concepts are not limited thereto. For example, in someexemplary embodiments, the organic insulating layer 260 may be omitted.

The second passivation layer 270 may be disposed on the organicinsulating layer 260. In an exemplary embodiment, the second passivationlayer 270 may be formed of an inorganic insulating material such assilicon nitride and silicon oxide. However, exemplary embodiments of thepresent inventive concepts are not limited thereto. For example, in someexemplary embodiments, the second passivation layer 270 may be omitted.

A first contact hole CNT1, a second contact hole CNT2, and a thirdcontact hole CNT3 may be formed in the first passivation layer 250, thecolor filter CF, the organic insulating layer 260, and the secondpassivation layer 270. The first contact bole CNT1 may overlap at leasta partial portion of the first drain electrode DE1. The second contacthole CNT2 may overlap at least a partial portion of the second drainelectrode DE2. The third contact bole CNT3 may overlap at least apartial portion of the third extension portion EP3 of the storage lineRL and at least a partial portion of the third source electrode SE3.

The transparent conductive pattern TP may be disposed on the secondpassivation layer 270. The transparent conductive pattern TP may includea transparent conductive material. For example, in an exemplaryembodiment, the transparent conductive material may includepolycrystalline, single crystalline, or amorphous indium tin oxide(ITO). However, exemplary embodiments of the present inventive conceptsare not limited thereto.

The transparent conductive pattern TP may include a first pixelelectrode PE1, a second pixel electrode PE2, and a connection patternCP. The first pixel electrode PE1, the second pixel electrode PE2, andthe connection pattern CP may be disposed on the same layer, and may bephysically and electrically insulated from each other.

The first pixel electrode PE1 may directly contact the first drainelectrode DE1 exposed through the first contact hole CNT1. In addition,the first pixel electrode PE1 may overlap the common electrode CE.Accordingly, the first pixel electrode PE1 and the common electrode CEoverlapping each other may form a first liquid crystal capacitor Clc1.

The first pixel electrode PE1 may include a first stem portion PE1 aextending substantially in the second direction DR2 and may extendsubstantially parallel to the data line DL. A first contact portion PE1b is electrically connected to the first drain electrode DE1. A firstbranch portion PE1 c is disposed between the first contact portion PE1 band the first stem portion PE1 a and electrically connects the firstcontact portion PE1 b to the first stem portion PE1 a.

The first contact portion PE1 b may be defined as a region overlappingthe first contact hole CNT1. Accordingly, the first contact portion PE1b of the first pixel electrode PE1 may be directly connected to thefirst drain electrode DE1 exposed by the first contact hole CNT1.

The first stem portion PE1 a, the first contact portion PE1 b, and thefirst branch portion PE1 c of the first pixel electrode PE1 may beelectrically connected to each other. Accordingly, the first stemportion PE1 a, the first contact portion PE1 b, and the first branchportion PE1 c may have the same electric potential.

The second pixel electrode PE may directly contact the second drainelectrode DE2 exposed through the second contact hole CNT2. In addition,the second pixel electrode PE2 may overlap the common electrode CE.Accordingly, the second pixel electrode PE2 and the common electrode CEoverlapping each other may form a second liquid crystal capacitor Clc2.

The second pixel electrode PE2 may be spaced apart from the first pixelelectrode PE1 with the scan line SL interposed therebetween when viewedfrom the top (e.g., in a plan view in a plane defined in the first andsecond directions DR1, DR2). The scan line SL may be positioned betweenthe first pixel electrode PE1 and the second pixel electrode PE2 whenviewed from the top. For example, as shown in the exemplary embodimentof FIG. 7, the second pixel electrode PE2 may be spaced apart from thefirst pixel electrode PE1 in the second direction DR2 While theexemplary embodiment of FIG. 7 shows the transparent conductive patternTP including two pixel electrodes, in another exemplary embodiment thetransparent conductive pattern TP may include one or more pixelelectrodes and the numbers of the pixel electrodes may vary.

The second pixel electrode PE2 may include a second stem portion PE2 aextending substantially in the second direction DR2 and may extendsubstantially parallel to the data line DL. A second contact portion PE2b is electrically connected to the second drain electrode DE2. A secondbranch portion PE2 c is disposed between the second stem, portion PE2 aand the second contact portion PE2 b and electrically connects thesecond contact portion PE2 b to the second stem portion PE2 a.

The second contact portion PE2 b may be defined as a region overlappingthe second contact hole CNT2. Accordingly, the second contact portionPE2 b of the second pixel electrode PE2 may be directly connected to thesecond drain electrode DE2 exposed by the second contact hole CNT2.

The second stem portion PE2 a, the second contact, portion PE2 b, andthe second branch portion PE2 c of the second pixel electrode PE2 may beelectrically connected to each other

Accordingly, the second stem portion PE2 a, the second contact portionPE2 b, and the second branch portion PE2 c may have the same electricalpotential.

The connection pattern CP may directly contact the third extensionportion EP3 of the storage line RL and the third source electrode SE3exposed through the third contact hole CNT3. Accordingly, the thirdsource electrode SE3 may be electrically connected to the thirdextension portion EP3 of the storage line RL through the connectionpattern CP.

The first alignment layer 280 may be disposed oil the transparentconductive pattern TP. The first alignment layer 280 may induce aninitial alignment of the liquid crystal molecules 410 in the liquidcrystal layer 400.

The first display plate 200 may include a first pattern PT1, a secondpattern PT2, and a third pattern PT3.

The first pattern PT1 may be disposed between the first substrate 210and the second pixel electrode PE2, and may overlap the second branchportion PE2 c of the second pixel electrode PE2. The first pattern PT1may prevent light leakage through the first alignment layer 280 even ininstances in which the first alignment layer 280 is damaged in theprocess of cutting the second branch portion PE2 c of the second pixelelectrode PE2 to repair the pixel PX.

In an exemplary embodiment, the first pattern PT1 may be arranged toextend from the storage line RL. For example, as shown in the exemplaryembodiment of FIG. 4, the flat pattern PT1 may extend inwardly in thesecond direction DR2 from the storage line RL.

In an exemplary embodiment, a shape of the first pattern PT1 may besymmetrical with respect to the second stem portion PE2 a of the secondpixel electrode PE2 when viewed from the top. For example, the shape ofthe first pattern PT1 may be symmetrical about the second stem portionPE2 a in a plan view in a plane defined in the first and seconddirections DR1, DR2. A first portion of the first pattern PT1 positionedon a right side of the second stem portion PE2 a when viewed from thetop and a second portion of the first pattern PT1 positioned on a leftside of the second stem portion PE2 a when viewed from the top may besymmetrical to each other about the second stem portion PE2 a. In thisexemplary embodiment, a length, width, shape. or area of the firstportion of the first pattern PT1 may be substantially the same as alength, width, shape, or area of the second portion of the first patternPT1, respectively.

The second pattern PT2 may be disposed between the first substrate 210and the first pixel electrode PE1, and may overlap the first branchportion PE1 c of the first pixel electrode PH The second pattern PT2 mayprevent light leakage through the first alignment layer 280 even ininstances when the first alignment layer 260 is damaged in the processof cutting the first branch portion PE1 c of the first pixel electrodePE1 to repair the pixel PX.

In an exemplary embodiment, the second pattern PT2 may extend from thefirst extension portion EPI of the storage line RL. For example, asshown in the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 4, the second pattern PT2 mayextend inwardly in the first direction DR1 from the first extensionportion EP1 of the storage line RL.

The third pattern PT3 may be disposed between the first substrate 210and the first pixel electrode PE1, and may extend from the secondextension portion EP2 of the storage line RL. For example, as shown inthe exemplary embodiment of FIG. 4, the third pattern PT3 may extend inthe first direction DR1 from the second extension portion EP2 of thestorage line RL.

As shown in the exemplary embodiment, the second pattern PT2 and thethird pattern PT3 may be arranged to have shapes that are symmetrical toeach other about the first stem portion PE1 a of the first pixelelectrode PE1 when viewed from the top. For example, the shapes of thesecond pattern PT2 and the third pattern PT3 may be symmetrical to eachother about the first stem portion PE1 a of the first pixel electrodePE1 in a plan view in a plane defined in the first and second directionsDR1, DR2. In this exemplary embodiment, a length, width, shape, or areaof the second pattern PT2 may be substantially the same as a length,width, shape, or area of the third pattern PT3, respectively, and adistance from the first stem portion PE1 a to the second pattern PT2 ina plan view may be substantially the same as a distance from the firststem portion PE1 a to the third pattern PT3 in the plan view.

The second display plate 300 may include a second substrate 310, a blackmatrix BM, a planarization layer 320, a common electrode CE, and asecond alignment layer 330.

The second substrate 310 may be disposed to face the first substrate210. In an exemplary embodiment, the second substrate 310 may be atransparent insulating substrate. In an exemplary embodiment, the secondsubstrate 310 may be formed of the same material as the first substrate210.

As shown in the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 8, the black matrix BM maybe disposed on the second substrate 310. The black matrix BM may bedisposed along the first direction DR1 in an inactive region. Theinactive ration may be a region that is a boundary between pixels thatare adjacent to each other in the second direction DR2 in which thefirst pixel electrode PE1 and the second pixel electrode PE2 are notdisposed. The black matrix BM may extend longitudinally substantially inthe first direction DR1, and may be disposed to overlap the scan lineSL.

The black matrix BM may block light from being transmitted to theinactive region, in an exemplary embodiment, the black matrix BM may beformed of a photosensitive composition, an organic material, a metallicmaterial, and the like. For example, the photosensitive composition mayinclude hinder resin, polymeric monomer, polymeric oligomer, pigment,dispersant, and the like. In addition, the metallic material ma includechromium (Cr) and the like.

The black matrix BM extending in the second direction DR2 may not bedisposed between pixels that are adjacent to each other in the firstdirection DR1. The spacing between the pixels adjacent in the firstdirection DR1 may be arranged so that the liquid crystal alignment mayprevent light from passing between the pixels adjacent in the firstdirection DR1 even without the black matrix BM.

The planarization layer 320 may be disposed on the black matrix BM. Theplanarization layer 320 may provide a flat surface on the commonelectrode CE. In an exemplary embodiment, the planarization layer 320may be formed of an organic material or an inorganic material.

As shown in the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 8, the common electrode CEmay be disposed on the planarization layer 320. At least a partialportion of the common electrode CE may overlap the first pixel electrodePE1, and at least one other partial portion of the common electrode CEmay overlap the second pixel electrode PE2. In an exemplary embodiment,the common electrode CE may be formed of a transparent conductivematerial such as ITO or IZO, or a reflective metal such as aluminum(Al), silver (Ag), chromium (Cr), or an alloy thereof.

The second alignment layer 330 may be disposed on the common electrodeCE. The second alignment layer 330 may induce an initial alignment ofthe liquid crystal molecules 410 in the liquid crystal layer 400. In anexemplary embodiment, the second alignment layer 330 may be formed ofsubstantially the same material as the first alignment layer 280.

The liquid crystal layer 400 may include a plurality of liquid crystalmolecules 410. In an exemplary embodiment, the liquid crystal molecules410 may be vertically aligned in the initial alignment state whilehaving negative dielectric anisotropy. The liquid crystal molecules 410may have a predetermined pre-tilt angle in the initial alignment state.The initial alignment of the liquid crystal molecules 410 may be inducedby the first alignment layer 280 and the second alignment layer 330.When an electric field is formed between the first display plate 200 andthe second display plate 300, the liquid crystal molecules 410 may tiltor rotate in a specific direction, thereby changing a polarization stateof light passing through the liquid crystal layer 400.

FIG. 9 is a layout view showing a method of repairing the display deviceaccording to an exemplary embodiment of the present inventive concepts.

In instances in which a defect occurs in a pixel, the defective pixelmay be repaired, so that the pixel having the defect may maintain ablack state. For example, a data signal may not be applied to a pixelelectrode of the pixel in which the defect has occurred, so that thedefective pixel may not be visually recognized.

Referring to FIGS. 4, 8 and 9, in a method of repairing a display deviceaccording to an exemplary embodiment, the second branch portion PE2 c ofthe second pixel electrode PE2 may be cut along a first cutting line CEso that a connection between the second pixel electrode PE2 and thesecond transistor TR2 may be blocked. When the second branch portion PE2c is cut, the second stem portion PE2 a and the second contact portionPE2 b of the second pixel electrode PE2 are disconnected from eachother, thereby preventing the data signal from being applied to thesecond pixel electrode PE2, so that the second pixel electrode PE2 maybe in an electrically floating state. Accordingly, the liquid crystalmolecules 410 between the second pixel electrode PE2 and the commonelectrode CE maintain the initial arrangement state, so that a defectivepixel may not be visually recognized.

In exemplary embodiment, the second branch portion PE2 c may be cutusing a laser. When the second branch portion PE2 c is cut using thelaser, the first alignment layer 280 disposed on the second pixelelectrode PE2 is damaged, so that light leakage may occur through thedamaged portion of the first alignment layer 280. However, the displaydevice according to an exemplary embodiment of the present inventiveconcepts includes the first pattern PT1 overlapping the second branchportion PE2 c, so that the first pattern PT1 may block light incident tothe first alignment layer 280 from the backlight unit BLU of FIG 1.Accordingly, the light leakage through the damaged portion of the firstalignment layer 280 may be prevented.

In the method of repairing a display device according to an exemplaryembodiment of the present inventive concepts, the first branch portionPE is of the first pixel electrode PE1 is cut along a second cuttingline CL2, so that a connection between the first pixel electrode PE1 andthe first transistor TR1 may be blocked. When the first branch portionPE1 c is cut, the first stem portion PE1 a and the first contact portionPE1 b of the first pixel electrode PE1 are disconnected with each other,thereby preventing the data signal from being applied to the first pixelelectrode PE1, so that the first pixel electrode PE1 may be in anelectrically floating state. Accordingly, the liquid crystal molecules410 between the first pixel electrode PE1 and the common electrode CEmaintain the initial arrangement state, so that a defective pixel maynot be visually recognized.

In an exemplary embodiment, the first branch portion PE1 c may be cutusing the laser. When the first branch portion PE1 c is cut using thelaser, the first alignment layer 280 disposed on the first pixelelectrode PE1 is damaged, so that light leakage may occur through thedamaged portion of the first alignment layer 280. However, the displaydevice according to exemplary embodiments of the present inventiveconcepts includes the second pattern PT2 overlapping the first branchportion PE1 c, so that the second pattern PT2 may block light incidentto the first alignment layer 280 from the backlight unit BLU, andaccordingly, the light leakage through the damaged portion of the firstalignment layer 280 may be prevented.

The display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the presentinventive concepts may be applied to a display device included in acomputer, a notebook, a mobile phone, a smartphone, a smart pad, a PMP,a PDA an MP3 player, or the like.

Although the display devices and methods of repairing display devicesaccording to exemplary embodiments of the present inventive conceptshave been described with reference to the drawings, the illustratedembodiments are examples, and may be modified and changed by a personhaving ordinary knowledge in the relevant technical field withoutdeparting from the present inventive concepts.

What is claimed is:
 1. A display device comprising: a substrate; a scanline disposed on the substrate; a storage line disposed parallel to thescan line; a data line intersecting the scan line and the storage line;first and second transistors that are configured to be electricallyconnected to the scan line and the data line; a first pixel electrodedisposed on the first transistor and including a first stem portiondisposed parallel to the data line, a first contact portion that isconfigured to be electrically connected to the first transistor, and afirst branch portion disposed between the first contact portion and thefirst stem portion, the first branch portion is configured toelectrically connect the first contact portion to the first stemportion; a second pixel electrode disposed on the second transistor, thesecond pixel electrode is spaced apart from the first pixel electrodewith the scan line disposed therebetween, the second pixel electrodeincluding a second stem portion disposed parallel to the data line, asecond contact portion that is configured to be electrically connectedto the second transistor, and a second branch portion disposed betweenthe second contact portion and the second stem portion, the secondbranch portion is configured to electrically connect the second contactportion to the second stem portion; and a first pattern disposed betweenthe substrate and the second pixel electrode, the first patternoverlapping the second branch portion.
 2. The display device of claim 1,wherein the first pattern is arranged to extend from the storage line.3. The display device of claim 2, wherein a shape of the first patternis symmetrical about the second stem portion.
 4. The display device ofclaim 1, further comprising: a second pattern disposed between thesubstrate and the first pixel electrode, the second pattern overlappingthe first branch portion.
 5. The display device of claim 4, wherein thestorage line includes a first extension portion and a second extensionportion extending parallel to the data line, the first extension portionand the second extension portion are spaced apart from each other withthe first stem portion disposed therebetween, and the second pattern isarranged to extend from the first extension portion.
 6. The displaydevice of claim 5, further comprising: a third pattern arranged toextend from the second extension portion and having a shape that issymmetrical to the second pattern about the first stem portion
 7. Thedisplay device of claim 1, further comprising: a third transistor thatis configured to be electrically connected to the scan line and thestorage line.
 8. The display device of claim 1, further comprising: analignment layer disposed on the first pixel electrode and the secondpixel electrode.
 9. The display device of claim 8, further comprising; acommon electrode disposed on the alignment layer; and a liquid crystallayer disposed between the alignment layer and the common electrode. 10.A display device comprising: a substrate; a scan line disposed on thesubstrate; a storage line disposed parallel to the scan line; a dataline intersecting the scan line and the storage line; a transistorincluding a gate electrode connected to the scan line, a sourceelectrode connected to the data line, and a drain electrode that isspaced apart from the source electrode; a pixel electrode disposed onthe transistor and including a stem portion disposed parallel to thedata line, a contact portion that is configured to be electricallyconnected to the drain electrode, and a branch portion disposed betweenthe contact portion and the stem portion, the branch portion isconfigured to electrically connect the contact portion to the stemportion; and a first pattern disposed between the substrate and thepixel electrode, the first pattern overlapping the branch portion. 11.The display device of claim 10 wherein the first pattern is arranged toextend from the storage line.
 12. The display device of claim 11,wherein a shape of the first pattern is symmetrical about the stemportion.
 13. The display device of claim 10, wherein the storage lineincludes a first extension portion and a second extension portionextending parallel to the data line, the first extension portion and thesecond extension portion are spaced apart from each other with the stemportion disposed therebetween, and the first pattern is arranged toextend from the first extension portion.
 14. The display device of claim13, further comprising: a second pattern arranged to extend from thesecond extension portion and having a shape that is symmetrical to thefirst pattern about the stem portion.
 15. The display device of claim10, further comprising: an alignment layer disposed on the pixelelectrode.
 16. A method of repairing a display device, which includes asubstrate, a scan line disposed on the substrate, a storage linedisposed parallel to the scan line, a data line intersecting the scanline and the storage line, first and second transistors that areconfigured to be electrically connected to the scan line and the dataline, a first pixel electrode disposed on the first transistor andincluding a first stem portion disposed parallel to the data line, afirst contact portion that is configured to be electrically connected tothe first transistor, and a first branch portion disposed between thefirst contact portion and the first stem portion, the first branchportion is configured to electrically connect the first contact portionto the first stem portion, a second pixel electrode disposed on thesecond transistor, the second pixel electrode is spaced apart from thefirst pixel electrode with the scan line interposed therebetween, thesecond pixel electrode including a second stem portion disposed parallelto the data line, a second contact portion that is configured to beelectrically connected to the second transistor, and a second branchportion disposed between the second contact portion and the second stemportion, the second branch portion is configured to electrically connectthe second contact portion to the second stem portion, and a firstpattern disposed between the substrate and the second pixel electrode,the first pattern overlapping the second branch portion, the methodcomprising: cutting an electrical connection between the second pixelelectrode and the second transistor by cutting the second branchportion.
 17. The method of claim 16, wherein the second branch portionis cut by using a laser.
 18. The method of claim 16, wherein the displaydevice further includes a second pattern disposed between the substrateand the first pixel electrode, the second pattern overlaps the firstbranch portion.
 19. The method of claim 18, further comprising: cuttingan electrical connection between the first pixel electrode and the firsttransistor by cutting the first branch portion.
 20. The method of claim19, wherein the first branch portion is cut by using a laser.